Seven of us made an early start from the 'Drome in calm sunny conditions for the annual G2 century ride. For six of us (Gill, Heidi, Michelle, Stuart, Rob and me) it was an attempt to convince ourselves we were truly up for the London 100 in three weeks time. Bryan was "allowed" to join us as our super Domestique.
Using a slightly modified version of the route of the inaugural G2 100 three years ago, we set off southwards over Turners Hill and through Ardingley. Turning left to Fletching we then double back through Chailey and Plumpton Green to our first stop in Ditchling. (Think I must have picked the route three years ago using road names - Mackerel Rocks, Cornwell's Bank, Cinder Hill, Honeypot Lane and Spatham Lane - wonderful stuff).
The Tearooms were as usual excellent and the team needed reminding that we had 60 odd miles still to go. Moving on westwards into the increasing breeze (Bryan started to earn his place on the ride in this section) the route criterion changed to interesting place names as we added in a make-weight loop through Wineham and Twineham before heading down Clappers Lane (old criterion again) to Fulking.
Into the wind again along the boringly named but fantastically scenic Edburton Road to Upper Beeding and Steyning.
Now back in more familiar territory, but ignoring temptation (I failed to mention just how close we passed the Wiston Granary), choosing road names again - Spithandle Lane (look at it on a map and you can see why) and Hole Street to Ashington and Warmshurst....
..where lesson of the day: even when you are using your own gpx route, don't use a three year old one without checking it carefully first (I had the wrong version)! Thank goodness for my SatMap (which has on it just what its name suggests says, a map), so a quick and sensible re-route was easily made.
Back on track we headed for Barns Green and Sumners Ponds for tea stop number two. Leisurely stop again, but it was seriously hot by that time. The report picture was duly taken by Alan, who we found in recuperating mode at the Ponds.
So, the last leg was via Warnham, Rusper and Newdigate dropping off Rob, Gill and Stuart on the way.
At the 'Drome my trusty SatMap showed 101 miles and 5600 feet of climbing (more than the L100). So job done.
It was indeed a lovely day for it, unlike last year when gales forced a last minute dramatic route change. Bit like the London 100 really. Hope that bodes well for this year's big event!
Thanks to Heidi, Stuart for spending many miles on the front and particularly Bryan who did a lot of backmarking too.
P.s. Hate to say this team, but you can't afford two hour long tea stops on August 2nd, you won't make the Leith Hill and Box hill cuts. Or maybe that's the plan!